FIA brings Indian culture to Windy City Bulls' arena

Opening a basketball game with the Indian anthem, followed by the U.S. national anthem, and doing presentations of Indian cultural dances four times during game time was emotional and historic for the Indian Americans of Illinois.

It was also a milestone for the Federation of Indian Associations, particularly for Sunil Shah, the founder and president of this organization, who created the concept and orchestrated the entire project.

The celebration was organized in partnership with the Windy City Bulls on Jan. 6 at the Sears Centre Arena in Hoffman Estates. The event was titled the Presentation of Indian Heritage. The game opened with the Indian and American national anthems by Rehana Haque and Shubha Vedula, respectively.

The Windy City Bulls is the official NBA D-League affiliate of the Chicago Bulls. On this occasion, Chicago Bulls General Manager Gar Forman was also in the house.

"This was a real honor for all of us," Shah said.

"Over two dozen local artists illuminated the indoor stadium and stole the hearts of the 2,000-plus crowd," said Mukesh Shah, FIA's current president.

The artists came from Junoon and SSS dancing schools.

Sahaj Shah, son of Sunil Shah, was the DJ of the festivities. During the break time, people enjoyed foods available at Sai Saffaron's concession stand.

"FIA is grateful to all the members of the FIA executive board for helping the organization to achieve this goal," said Onkar Singh Sangha, founder and past president of FIA.

The Federation of Indian Associations, an umbrella organization of the Indian American social service organizations, is hosting a gala event in celebration of India's Republic Day Saturday, Jan. 28, at Meadows Club, 2950 Golf Road, Rolling Meadows. The event starts at 6 p.m.

For information, visit www.fia-il.com.

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